Name: Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American Comfort Food
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 2 cups broccoli florets, quartered; 13.9 oz kielbasa sausage ring, sliced; 1 1/2 cups whole milk; 1 1/2 cups shredded mild cheddar cheese; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 small yellow onion, diced; 1 tsp minced garlic; Salt and pepper, to taste; Optional: 1 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening); Optional: fresh parsley, for garnish

Jump to Recipe

If your weeknights feel like a sprint and you’re craving something hearty, comforting, and low-effort, this Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet is exactly what you need. It’s cozy, cheesy, and packed with smoky sausage, tender broccoli, and pasta—basically, all the ingredients for a weeknight win. And the best part? It’s a true one-pan dinner that comes together in about 30 minutes.

This is one of those meals that checks all the boxes: a filling broccoli pasta dish with a creamy, cheesy sauce and just enough veggies to make you feel like you’re doing something good for your body (even if you’re mostly in it for the kielbasa and cheddar).

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet

One pot = fewer dishes (praise be)
Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor
A family favorite that even picky eaters love
Quick cook time—done in 30 minutes
Budget-friendly and easy to customize

Ingredients You’ll Need

8 oz penne pasta
2 cups broccoli florets, quartered
13.9 oz ring of kielbasa, sliced
1 1/2 cups whole milk
1 1/2 cups shredded mild cheddar cheese
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 small yellow onion, diced
1 tsp minced garlic
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 1 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening), fresh parsley for garnish

How to Make This Creamy Sausage Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne according to package directions. In the last 2 minutes, toss in the broccoli. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add kielbasa slices and cook for about 5 minutes until browned.
Stir in the diced onion and garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the onion softens.
In a small bowl, whisk milk with cornstarch until smooth. Slowly pour into the skillet while stirring.
Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Reduce the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar a handful at a time until melted and creamy.
Add the cooked pasta and broccoli back to the skillet. Toss everything together until evenly coated.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley if using, and serve warm.

Tips for a Perfect Pasta Skillet Recipe

Don’t overcook the broccoli—adding it in the last 2 minutes of pasta cooking keeps it bright and tender.
Want a deeper flavor? Try smoked Gouda or sharp cheddar.
Add a dash of paprika or chili flakes for a little kick.
Swap penne for rotini, shells, or whatever pasta you have on hand.

Why This Dish Is on Constant Rotation in My Kitchen

This recipe started as a “what can I throw together with what’s in the fridge?” situation. I had kielbasa, a head of broccoli, and some cheese… and not much brainpower left. One pot and 30 minutes later, I had a creamy sausage pasta that my whole family raved about—and that I didn’t have to bribe anyone to eat.

It’s now one of my go-tos when I want something comforting without reaching for takeout. Plus, it reheats like a dream, making it perfect for next-day lunches.

What to Serve With Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet

This meal is hearty on its own, but if you want to stretch it or add a little something extra:

A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
Garlic bread or dinner rolls
Roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts
A light white wine or sparkling water with lemon

How to Store and Reheat

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce.

To freeze, let cool completely and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes! Just thaw and drain it well before adding, or toss it in with the pasta a minute earlier.

Can I use a different sausage?

Absolutely. Smoked sausage, andouille, or even chicken sausage all work well.

What if I don’t have cheddar cheese?

Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a little cream cheese can work in a pinch.

Is this dish spicy?

Not at all. But you can easily spice it up with chili flakes or hot sauce.

Comfort Food, Simplified

This Creamy Kielbasa Broccoli Skillet is the pasta dinner you didn’t know you needed. It’s creamy without being heavy, packed with flavor, and it’s the kind of pasta skillet recipe that makes cleanup as easy as dinner. Whether it’s a weeknight crunch or a cozy Sunday supper, this broccoli pasta dish brings everyone to the table—and keeps them coming back.

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